【summary】
The Saga University Liver Disease Center was officially invited to present at the 32nd Mechesil Belau Conference hosted by the Government of the Republic of Palau on September 30, 2025.

Special Research Associate and Registered Dietitian Nagisa Hara from the Center presented the outcomes of the “Healthy Liver!!” Project, a collaborative initiative launched in FY2023 between Saga University, the Palauan government, medical institutions, and local restaurants to prevent and improve lifestyle-related diseases such as obesity, fatty liver, and diabetes.

Health assessments using FibroScan® and InBody® found that among 183 Palauan adults, 42% were obese (BMI ≥30), 62% showed liver fat accumulation, and 20% showed suspected advanced fibrosis.Based on these findings, the team collaborated with a local restaurant to develop and serve a healthier version of Sicilian Rice, inspired by Saga’s local gourmet dish, promoting it as a balanced meal model adapted to Palauan cuisine.

The team also introduced Hepatercise, an exercise program jointly developed by Saga University and Kurume University for improving fatty liver, and demonstrated its simple and safe movements together with participants. The program was well received as an easy and effective muscle-strengthening exercise.

This presentation was realized through the invitation of BILUNG Gloria G. Salii and EBILREKLAI Mitsko Walter, leaders of Palau’s women’s organization “Mechesil Belau.”　Moving forward, Saga University aims to further collaborate with public institutions, NGOs, and restaurants across Palau to create an environment where anyone can easily choose healthy meals, fostering a sustainable, community-led health culture.

This activity was carried out with the support and collaboration of the Embassy of Japan in Palau, Yoko Morisaki (Palau Community College), Nobumichi Amma (Peace Winds Japan), Fumiya Nakao (Tori Tori Restaurant), and Uroi Salii, the daughter of Bilung who served as the local coordinator, along with many other local partners.

【contact】
Liver center, Saga University Hospital, Japan
Phone: +81-952-34-3010